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The Jo, a 1 inch diameter straight staff of unassuming character, is closely linked with the Japanese sword but when compared with a live blade,it has some distinct advantages that make up for its simple shape and lack of a cutting edge. Unlike a sword, a Jo may be unexpectedly wielded from either end or any point in between. It also has a few more inches of reach than a sword. Although many weapons arose as a defense against the sword, some very effectively, the Jo is most notably associated with schools arising from traditional kenjutsu and is now used in the disciplines of Aikido and Jodo. Staffs are inconspicuous and, owing to their elegance and simplicity, are preferred by some martial artists above all other weapons. Kingfisher Jo are made entirely without the use of sandpaper. They are finished with extremely sharp hand tools leaving hundreds of little facets that create a smooth but extremely sure and confident hold while at the same time allowing for the hand to slide to various positions quickly. Because of the techniques of its manufacture are traditional and aspects of its shape and proportion are correct historically, it has the superior look and feel of the archaic staffs of feudal times. For information on how these weapons are made, see About Kingfisher WoodWorks